Festivals in Sierra Leone

Discover traditional festivals and celebrations of this country

Africa / Western Africa

Festivals

Independence Day Parade

Season or date: April 27

Nationwide military bands and student marches, with music events held in cities at night.

Freetown Carnival

Season or date: Late December

Carnival with dance and music held in the capital. Colorful costumes and parades are popular with tourists.

Tiwai Island Turtle Festival

Season or date: August

Ecotourism event celebrating the protection of wild sea turtles.

Eid al-Fitr

Season or date: Beginning of the 10th month of Islamic calendar

Islam's largest festival celebrating the end of Ramadan. Large-scale prayers and family gatherings are held throughout the country.

Eid al-Adha

Season or date: 10th day of the 12th month of Islamic calendar

Festival of Sacrifice. Livestock is offered and meat is shared with the poor.

Public holidays

  • Independence Day
  • Christmas
  • Eid al-Fitr
  • Eid al-Adha
  • New Year
  • Boxing Day

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